More than 800 artists and industry professionals contributed to the event, which was created by Country Music Hall of Famer Owen and has generated more than $385 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since 1989.

“It’s been incredible to see country radio and the country music industry embrace this program the way it has,” Owen said in a statement.

Performers toured the hospital, met with patients and worked to raise awareness for St. Jude, and a Sunday night dinner featured performances by country music songwriters.

Watch a video message about St. Jude from Ronnie Dunn above. For more information, visit www.countrycares.org.

James is currently on the American Idols Live! Tour 2010, and he'll soon begin work on a debut album due for a 2011 release.

"I can't wait to get him into the studio to begin recording his debut album," said Sony Music Nashville chairman and CEO Gary Overton.

In a statement, James said, "All my life I have wanted this and now my dream has come true. Words can't describe how thankful and blessed I am for the opportunity to give back to all those who have supported me. I'm going to work hard to make the best debut album possible."